Monday, June 3, 2013

Since the horrific attacks at this years Boston Marathon, I, like most of our running community, have been dealing with a range of emotions and thoughts. Wanting to do something, to stand up against the assault on what we hold in high esteem, freedom and personal achievement, I have a strong desire to run Boston next year. I want to qualify and run again this revered course.

After running the 2011 race, which qualified me to run in 2012, I made the smart decision not to push hard at last years race, due to the brutal heat. I was OK with the almost hour slower time, thinking I would run another qualifying marathon during the year. Instead, my fancies were directed towards several trail races and a BQ for 2013 never materialized. Now, two years down the road from my last competitive marathon, I find my self wishing again to run long and fast, to grab the brass ring, so I can line up with the best next April.

Due to a combination of personal and family issues, I had to forego any attempts at a BQ these last two months. Now I must look into the stern face of summer and plan my efforts to run a 3:30 qualifying time by September. Am I fooling myself, diluted by the memory of 2011, when weather was perfect, training was solid and I raced well?

When the fastest marathon time ever was recorded by Geoffrey Mutai (2:03:02).

Mutai blazing a record setting pace (photo provided by M. Metlitz)

So forward I must move, again focusing on long, speed and tempo runs. Ramping up the miles, pushing back the ebb of age, to once again perform as my memories so fondly depict. Can I ignore the voice of doubt, who whispers my best races are behind me? Most importantly, can I maintain the motivation to put in the required efforts to tune my body to cover 26+ miles at a desired pace? Then redo it all again to be ready for the starting line in April? I think I can, though with less certainty than before.

As I have thought about this, I took the liberty of rephrasing some famous words to better express what is at stake. My apologies in advance to Mr. Shakespeare.

About Me

A 50 something runner who recently discovered the wonders of trail running. I always enjoyed running hills and now have started to take on some mountain trails. Treat hills like old friends. Give them a big smile and say "its good to see you".